Paul
not a MD but buy looking at it i would guess it to be the type of tool one
might use when you have cut someones chest open.  the curve would go
around the edge of the cut where the muscle and bone is and you would use
that loop handle to pull on.  that would allow greater access to the area
without making a larger or multiple incisions.

google images search for chest spreader yields that the proper medical
name for this tool is 'retractor'.  indeed it is used to pull back
skin/flesh/bone after an incision to gain greater access to the work area.

this site has quite a few offerings for retractors,
http://www.gpcmedical.com/products.php?pcode=211&ccode=273

this picture is NOT for those of you that can't handle blood and
internal organs it shows retractors in use.
http://www.thompsonsurgical.com/images/tsi_imagery_urologyhome.jpg

thanks for posting this it looks like an interesting tool how exactly did
you use it?

jonathan

On Wed, 28 Mar 2007, Paul Guzyk wrote:

> A friend loaned me this tool which is great for removing
> windshield/window glass.   He found it at Pick N Pull in the trunk of
> a car.
>
> The strong but smooth rounded corners helped me remove a good
> windshield without breaking the glass or ruining the rubber gasket.
>
> see http://californiavan.com/tool
>
> I want to buy one, but have no idea what it is called...
>
> It has Sklar inscribed on it, which is a medical instrument company.
>
> What is it called?
> Where can I buy a couple of them?
>
> Or does anyone have suggestions for better windshield removal tools?
>
>
>